Tips on having a challenge coin designed 

Step #1:  Choosing what to put on your coin 

The first step in designing a challenge coin is deciding what to put on it.  It is extremely important to decided what you want your challenge coin to say about you, your unit or your business before deciding the art or text of the coin. 

Always keep in mind that this coin is going to represent YOU!  It is going to be carried around in people’s pockets, displayed in offices or homes for all to see.  It is a legacy to your unit or business and must be carefully designed.  Once it has been manufactured there is no changing it. 

Step #2:  Choosing a design and text 

You can put just about anything on a coin.  You can use any format such as logos, pictures, artwork, graphic’s or even hand sketched drawings.  Most manufacturers have graphic artists who will take your ideas and pictures and turn them into a work of art for you.  There are several things to consider when choosing pictures, art, or text. 

• Does it truly represent you, your unit, business, etc.?
• Does it say about you what you want it to say?
• If shown to someone would they recognize it as representing you, your unit, etc.?
• Would you be proud to show it off?
• Will it make others want your coin for their collection? 

 Step #3:  Choosing a manufacturer 

Once you’ve decided on a design and text you must find the right manufacturer.  Choosing a good manufacturer is probably the most important step of all.  You could have the greatest design in the world but if it is poorly manufactured or is of poor quality then it turns into a poor representation of you or your unit.  When choosing a manufacturing company ask lots and lots of questions.  If they are not willing to take the time and answer all of your questions then you should move on.  Here are a list of things you should find out from a manufacturer before you allow them to do you coin. 

• How long have they been in business?
• Are they willing to send you samples of their work?
• Do they have a guarantee and what are the details of it?
• Do they require a deposit and what are the terms of the deposit?
• Will they give you a quote that includes all costs and guarantee it?
• Do they have hidden costs?
• How is there customer service?
• How willing are they to continue answering your questions and concerns? Or, do they stop communicating.

 Step #4:  How much are you willing to pay to get the best coin 

Though cost is a very important factor in creating a coin remember that cost is not the most important part of a creating a coin.  It is more important to deal with a reputable manufacturer who has a reputation of creating high quality coins that come with a guarantee and good customer service than paying a lower price.